Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim faces a critical period of decision-making as the Premier League's winter transfer window approaches, with several first-team players now eligible to agree moves to new clubs.
January window brings contract uncertainty
The transfer market reopens for English top-flight clubs on January 1, a date that signals more than just potential new signings. For players whose current deals are set to expire on June 30, 2025, the new year brings the legal right to negotiate with overseas clubs.
This rule allows them to sign a pre-contract agreement, securing a free transfer for the summer while remaining available to play for their current employer until the season concludes. The situation mirrors that of Liverpool last year, when stars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk were in a similar position before signing new deals, while Trent Alexander-Arnold departed for Real Madrid.
For United, four players find themselves in this precarious contractual position as 2025 begins.
Key duo at a crossroads
While veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton is expected to retire and defender Tyrell Malacia has been sidelined long-term, the futures of two revitalised stars pose significant questions for the club's hierarchy.
Defender Harry Maguire and midfielder Casemiro have both resurrected their Old Trafford careers under Amorim after previously falling out of favour. Their potential departures would now represent a substantial loss, a notion unthinkable just 18 months ago.
Despite United holding and triggering one-year extension options on both players' deals, their long-term status remains unresolved. Casemiro, one of the squad's highest earners following his 2022 move, faces scrutiny over whether his resurgence justifies another lucrative contract. Reports have linked the Brazilian with lucrative moves to Saudi Arabia or the United States.
Harry Maguire has been openly discussing the uncertainty. After scoring the winner at Anfield earlier this season, the 32-year-old England international remarked, "I’m in my last year now, so this could be the last time I played at Anfield for this club." The Mail reported in October that his representatives have held talks with United, but no formal offer has been tabled, with a potential wage cut on the table if a suitable contract length is agreed.
Amorim's praise and looming decisions
Head coach Ruben Amorim has publicly praised Casemiro's professionalism and impact. In October, he highlighted the midfielder's importance, stating, "I think he gives a lot of experience. He's an example for everyone... he fought and he worked, and now he's back in the national team. He's so important for us."
This endorsement underscores the dilemma facing the club's decision-makers. With the January transfer window opening imminently, United must weigh the financial implications of new deals for ageing stars against the sporting value and leadership they provide to Amorim's project.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Maguire and Casemiro commit their futures to Manchester United or begin formal negotiations to depart on a free transfer at the season's end.
